From August 30 to September 6, 2026, Haarlem will once again become one of the key youth bowling destinations as the 4th Storm Junior Dutch Open takes over the brand-new Bison Bowling Haarlem.
For the fourth edition, the tournament organizers and the main sponsor - Storm Bowling - will not only deliver high-level competition, but also plan additional activities designed to help young athletes expand their bowling knowledge.
While full details will be announced closer to the event, the goal is clear: make the week in Haarlem more than just a youth tournament.
Building on a Strong 2025 Edition
The tournament returns after a memorable 2025 edition that brought together more than 70 talented youth bowlers from across Europe.
Last year, the Storm Junior Dutch Open featured three age divisions – Under 15, Under 19, and Under 26.
The U15 division was won by Sweden’s Charlie Classon, the U19 title went to the Czech Republic’s Matyáš Mňačko, and the U26 division saw Zuzana Kvasničková of the Czech Republic claim the title before later capturing the Masters crown as well, becoming the first female player to win the award.
A Youth Event That Keeps Growing
The 2026 edition introduces an expanded format with six divisions – three for boys and three for girls – covering athletes from the youngest category (born after June 30, 2012) up to competitors aged 25.
Open to athletes from all across the globe, the event continues to serve as a serious competitive platform for bowling's next generation.
All categories will play:
- 6 games of qualification
- 4-game semi-finals (top six advance, scores carried forward)
- 3-game finals (top four advance)
- 1-game in Masters, where scores reset and only the highest single game decides the Masters champion – one for boys, one for girls
Learning Beyond the Lanes
The 2026 edition of the Storm Junior Dutch Open will also offer activities off the lanes.
Storm's Matt McNiel will be present in Haarlem to host two educational seminars during the week.
These sessions are designed to give young athletes deeper insight into modern bowling equipment, lane play, and performance development. For many participants, this will be a rare opportunity to learn directly from a PBA professional and one of the leading figures in the bowling industry.
A Non-Urethane Challenge
One of the defining features of the 2026 edition is the non-urethane rule.
Urethane balls are not allowed, adding a clear strategic dimension. Young athletes will have to control transition, adjust angles, and manage reaction without relying on urethane shapes. It places the focus on lane play, versatility, and shot execution. For a youth tournament, that emphasis on skill development feels intentional.
A New Home: Bison Bowling Haarlem
The 2026 edition will take place inside the brand-new Bison Bowling Haarlem – a completely rebuilt venue that marks a new chapter for one of the Netherlands’ most established bowling centres.
After years of preparation, construction of the new complex began in early 2025. One year later, a modern entertainment building now stands in place, ready to welcome bowlers from across the globe. The centre features 16 bowling lanes equipped with high-quality AMF equipment, including AMF SPL surfaces, AMF Edge Freefall pinsetters, and Qubica scoring.
Prize Fund and Structure
The prize fund is fixed but increases depending on total entries, with Storm bowling balls, accessories, and VIS Sportwear tournament shirts awarded to top finishers in each category.
Depending on participation numbers, the total prize pool can reach up to €6,735 across all divisions.
More Than Just Scores
Qualification squads begin on August 30, with final rounds scheduled for September 6, ending with the Masters and medal ceremony.
For many players, this week in Haarlem will not just be about scores. It will be about testing themselves against international competition, building friendships, and gaining experience that shapes their future in the sport.
